Fluval 3plus Filter Won't Stay Put!

[beej]

Hi all,

This is my first proper post so I hope it isn't a daft question. I've checked the instructions that came with it and also quickly searched here and Google but can't find the answer...

I've just bought a new tank+kit package. The filter unit included is a Fluval 3plus, which seems suited for the tank size (120l). I've installed the filter as per the manufacturers instructions, with the little air intake about 1cm above the waterline.

The problem I have is that the filter unit keeps floating off its mounting bracket!! I guess the foam inserts have trapped air and are making the unit as a whole less dense than the tank water.

Short of fastening some kind of balast/weight to the filter, is there anything I can do to stop the filter floating off? If I do need to attach a weight, what should I use and what kind of adhesive would be suitable (non-toxic)?


Thanks in advance for your advice and experience.

Jon

 

[godzuki]

hi

I personally keep my fluvel below the water line because of this problem, other then making sure the actual "filters" are filled with water I cant really offer any more real advice...

 

[bogwood]

My lfs recommended about a cm below the waterline... and to add the included attachment if you want bubbles over the surface...

 

[beej]

Thanks for your responses.

Just to clarify - the main outlet nozzle is 1-2 cm below the water surface. The air inlet on the T-piece attachment (think it's called a venturi?) is 1cm above the surface.

I don't have any other form of aeration in the tank. From some other posts I get the impression that lots of folks think the venturi(?) inlet has little benefit and makes the unit unnecessarily noisy. I am happy to remove it if it serves no real benefit. What do you think?


Starting a fishless cycling tonight - wish me luck!!

J

 

[Bloo]

The venturi has no real benefit and just make noise. Make sure when you clean the filter that you dunk it under the water properly and give it a 180 degree turn to release any trapped air. Don't wait for the clogging indicator (the little yellow thing) to tell you that it's clogged and "time to clean" - make sure you maintain the filter on a regular basis (I did mine weekly).

 

[Rooster]

Not sure if the + is much different, but with my 3, assemble the LOT in the tank ! give the sponge a good squeeze to rid the air, also invert the head to release bubbles, it wont float then

 

[jaminzx7r]

Do you have the flow adjuster a full rate? I found that the whole filter can be a little bouyant but if you have the flow rate at maximum the filter gets pulled down by the flow force.